Electrician Career Education

The role of an electrician is to repair, maintain, and install electrical systems and appliances on a building. They usually do this in houses, factories, businesses, and offices.

Career Prospects

The demand for electricians is expected to grow in the coming years. This is because of the integration of technology into homes and houses. Electricians will be brought in to install the components. They will also be required to upgrade the electrical systems so that they can handle the additional load. Those who have more clients usually earn the most because the work depends on contracts.

Job Description

Read Technical Diagrams
An electrician needs to know how to read technical diagrams in order for them to do their job well. This includes the blueprints of the structure of the facility or building. This helps them to work faster and make correct decisions that will not lead to more problems.

Maintain Wiring
An electrician must know how to maintain the wiring and the control of electricity systems. The system powers the lights and appliances that are within a particular building. This is important because it is a complex task. The wiring of completed buildings is harder to access because it is covered. The electrician has to look at the plan and identify a course of action. They also need to know how to inspect electrical components including circuit breakers and meters. This is important when they are looking for faulty parts within an electrical network.

Repair or replace wiring using tools
They have to know the type of tools that are most appropriate for each job. This is because one requires power tools when examining and replacing fixtures and equipment. It is important to note that conduit benders are very helpful when one needs to do the wiring inside a building. Some examples of power tools include drills and saws. They are used to perform intensive tasks.

Follow state and building codes
An electrician has to observe the state regulations for buildings in the area when setting up the wiring. Different areas have different codes. An electrician has to do the wiring with this in mind. Following the regulations will help to avoid problems down the line.

Identify electrical problems using testing devices
An electrician should have the right testing devices so that they can identify problems within a network. They should make sure that the devices are working for them to be efficient. Electricians usually work alone because of the nature of the work. They need to focus on one component at a time and then do a test on that. One person can easily do most of the work. Electricians sit down with the building engineers to come up with an electrical plan for the structure during the construction of a building. One has to be very cautious on the job because of the risks and dangers. It is not the most dangerous profession, but there is a risk of getting burns, shocks, or falling.

Work Hours
Electricians work full-time because of the nature of their work. They might be required to work in the evenings or on weekends in case of emergencies. Most of the repair work is done on call. It is not easy to know when repairs will need to be done. They work in both indoor and outdoor environments depending on the work on the site.

Important Electrician Certifications

EPA Certification

The EPA Universal Certifications opens up a wider variety of opportunities, and the holder of the certificate is more marketable whether they were to start their own company or work within a firm.

Nate Certification

The most highly recognized Electrician certification. It's not a requirement to become NATE certified, but, due to the rigorous exams in place, the NATE certified technician is more specialized and knowledgeable.

How Much Does a Trained Electrician Tech Make?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2015, Electrician technician salary was $21.69 per hour or $45,110 per year. Many technicians maximize their income by working longer hours during peak seasons. As with any occupation, Electrician technician salary is dependent on the job, employer location, level of experience, and whether or not a union is involved. Electrician salary is usually implemented in the form of hourly wages, which will increase based on skill level, knowledge, and experience. More career answers.